Michael
Pennie has made eleven journeys in West Africa, during the years 1987-1999.
His initial purpose was to explore sculpture in wood in African art from
his professional perspective as a sculptor. However a rich collection
of more than 3000 images has emerged from these journeys, impressions
gathered by an informed eye over a period of twelve years. The photographs
depict life in the modern urban cities of Accra, Abidjan, Dakar and Bamako,
and in great contrast life in remote villages deep in the bush. These
journeys and Michael's curiosity about Africa have involved a close collaboration
with the people of the West African countries where he has worked.